The new $599 outdoor adventure watch is built for explorers and extreme conditions
Suunto has unveiled the Vertical 2, a feature-packed successor to its well-regarded outdoor sports watch.
The new model adds a vibrant 1.5-inch AMOLED display, a built-in LED flashlight, and a host of new AI-powered training features. The watch will be available from October 15, starting at $599 for the stainless steel version.
The launch is the latest major release in what has been a busy period for the Finnish brand, arriving hot on the heels of the Suunto Race 2.
It also signals a continuation of its return to being a serious contender in the outdoor watch market, building on the success of the original Vertical from 2023 by adding the premium features needed to compete at the high end of the sports watch market.
What’s new with the Vertical 2?
The most significant upgrade features a new 1.5-inch AMOLED display that delivers an impressive peak brightness of 2,000 nits, ensuring excellent readability even in direct sunlight.
Another major hardware addition is the integrated LED flashlight, a crucial safety and utility tool for adventurers that brings the Vertical 2 in line with Garmin’s most recent premium models.
The watch retains its rugged build, with options for either a stainless steel or a premium Grade 5 titanium case, both protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal lens.
On the software front, the Vertical 2 is loaded with navigation tools, including free offline maps and dual-frequency GNSS for pinpoint accuracy. It also introduces a comprehensive new suite of training metrics, including a personalized Suunto AI Coach, Training Stress Score (TSS), and a unified Recovery Score to provide a more holistic view of performance and readiness.
Despite the bright new screen, battery life remains strong, with Suunto promising up to 20 days in smartwatch mode and an impressive 65 hours in the most accurate GPS mode.
We’ll be putting all those claims to the test in the upcoming weeks, so stay tuned for our full review of the Vertical 2.
